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Pain in the neck, sharp pain in lower head when leaning backwards.

I've had a stiff, sore neck as well as a sore upper back for some time now, but I thought that it was because of the way I was sleeping. It hasn't gone away and it's been about 6 months. My neck gets stiff sometimes, and I crack it which brings relief. Is this okay? Also, my biggest problem is that sometimes, when I stretch or do something, I hear a crack in my neck or back and a sharp, shooting pain hits me in the lower right-side part of my head. It gets so bad that it brings me to tears, but it only lasts a couple of seconds. The spot is always the same, lower right-side, parallel to my right ear. Do I need to see a chiropractor for this?
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547368 tn?1440541785
Hello and Welcome,

I am sorry to read that you have suffered with cervical pain for six months. I had undiagnosed issues with my cervical spine for a number of years. I know how painful and troublesome it can be.

First of all I really think you need a DX (diagnosis) by your medical provider before you consult a Chiropractor. I know there are some good, conscience Chiropractors out there - unfortunately there are also some slam and bam ones too.  So do I think you should see one? No.

Respectfully - I don't think that your SX are due from "sleeping wrong" - certainly not for six months.

The fact that you hear or feel a "crack" when you stretch or move is not concerning. What is concerning is the intense shooting pain you are experiencing. I have a structure issue of my cervical spine that needs attention. You may have the same - you may not. I think it's important that you know what - if anything may be causing your SX.  

I hope you'll let us know how you are doing. I'll look forward to hearing from you again soon.

Take Care,
~Tuck
Helpful - 0
Avatar universal
Hi klarizaj.  :)

First, I want to let you know I'm glad you found our Back and Neck Community here on MH (MedHelp).  :)

I'm so sorry that you are experiencing this pain and discomfort and have been for such an extended period of time.  :(  

It could be something as simple as sleeping wrong or something similar to that (I'm assuming you've tried the obvious things, such as sleeping differently, changing pillows, etc.) but when you have something that continues for such a long period (6 months) you really need to go to your PCP (Primary Care Physician) and have this checked out.  You don't want to take any chances with your neck and this has gone on way to long without finding out the cause.

Best wishes and I'll be looking for your updates.      .........        Sherry   :)
Helpful - 0
15439126 tn?1444443163
Six months is a long time to put up with it.

- have you been especially anxious, tense about something in your life?

- have you been doing something intense under poor lighting or glary lighting?

- how long since you've seen an optometrist?  are you wearing your prescription eyewear?

- have you experienced an injury (such as, whiplash from being rear ended in a minor car accident)?

- is your health otherwise o.k., or are you on one or more serious prescription medications?

- does applying heat, help?

- do you practice any loosening up routines or stretches?

Helpful - 0
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